Stand Out With a Strong Executive Resume

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In today’s competitive print and packaging job market, a powerful CV can be your ticket to boardroom opportunities. Hiring managers and executive recruiters often scan resumes in less than 30 seconds—so yours needs to communicate leadership, impact, and industry relevance fast.

Top Tips for Executive Packaging Professionals:

1. Lead with Impact
Start with a clear executive summary—3-5 lines describing your sector expertise, leadership style, and career highlights. Example:

“Strategic operations leader with 15+ years in flexible packaging. Proven track record of leading £100M+ P&L, driving site turnarounds, and implementing lean manufacturing across multi-site operations.”

2. Use Metrics to Tell Your Story
Recruiters love numbers. Use KPIs to demonstrate business impact:

  • “Increased EBITDA margin by 22% through cost-saving initiatives.”

  • “Led plant with 200+ staff; improved OEE from 68% to 89% within 9 months.”

  • “Grew European sales from €40M to €70M in under 2 years.”

3. Keep it Industry-Relevant
Tailor your content to print & packaging terminology:

  • Mention substrates (flexible films, paperboard, corrugated, etc.)

  • Include relevant machinery or processes (gravure, flexo, die-cutting, etc.)

  • Highlight customers or channels (FMCG, pharma, industrial)

4. Format for Senior-Level Readability

  • 2–3 pages max

  • Use bold headers, bullet points, and clear fonts

  • Avoid fluff—focus on outcomes, leadership, and strategy

5. Include Leadership Competencies
C-suite hiring managers look for these core themes:

  • Change management

  • Team development

  • P&L ownership

  • Strategy execution

  • Private equity / M&A exposure